Category Archives: STYLE

fashion, style, beauty, interior design, and all things glam and chic

Ulta is Having a Massive Sale on Skincare Products

Sunday Funday just got a whole lot better: Ulta is having a ~huge~ sale on their skincare products, called the Love Your Skin event. It starts today and ends January 27, and it’s Ulta’s biggest skincare sale (and one of its biggest sales, period) of the whole year. Now that’s how you do #NewYearNewMe. Get all your favorite serums, masks, creams, and more as much as 50% off. Important note: you’ll be able to get products from brands like Clinique and Murad discounted with one-day-only sales, which means it’s probably best to stop by Ulta every single day to really take full advantage of the price drops. You know, just to be extra careful…

We already love Ulta for their massive selection and reasonable prices. This is just the cherry on top. Happy shopping!

Winter ‘Do Rescue: Weatherproof Hairstyles

Mother nature wages war on us during these colder months and despite all of the magic of the season, it can be somewhat of a horror story in the beauty department when we can’t get our tresses to keep up with the bad bouts of weather. Whether it’s wet, windy, or snowing outside, you will absolutely benefit from having a few protective styling tricks up those cozy sleeves. We’re pouring in some of our favorite weatherproof hairstyles below, and they are exactly the kind of stunning-do’s that won’t leave your locks suffering another gloomy day!

 

Upside-Down Dutch Braid Bun

braidbun

Keeping hair out of the face and tucked away securely is the surefire way to avoid a windy mess. An upside down Dutch braid gives the classic sock bun a gorgeous detail and added thickness. Section off the top half of hair and clip it out of the way while you make the braid. Part the remaining bottom half of your hair evenly down the middle and Dutch braid. Secure braid and gather it up with the rest of the hair into a high ponytail. Grabbing the ends of the ponytail, hold the pony over your head and place a donut bun maker (or an old sock) shortly below the ends. Fold hair around the donut, moving down the ponytail until it’s laying comfortable on top of your head in a bun. Tuck loose pieces away with a bobby pin.

 

Low Ponytail

lowpony

Sleek and sophisticated, the low ponytail is foolproof when it comes to bad weather. An added bonus of this gorgeous hairstyle is that it draws attention to those beautiful fall faces and outfits. Leave out any face framing bangs or pieces of hair out and pull the rest of the hair back to the nape of the neck into a low pony, securing with an elastic band. Grab a small piece from the ponytail and wrap it around the elastic band to conceal it. Secure with a bobby pin.

 

French-fishtail Double Braid

pigtails

Ladies, did you hear? Pigtails are back in style and we’re totally fangirling over it! Everyone knows that when it comes to protective styling, braids reign supreme. Part hair evenly and make a loose French braid. Once you get halfway down the hair past the ear, use the remaining hair to make a fishtail braid. Secure with an elastic band.

 

Baby Half-Up

halfup

This playful hairstyle will keep fly-aways at bay while looking super stylish and trendy.  Section off the front sides of your crown and bring it to the top of your head, making a small ponytail. Secure with an elastic band. Pulling it tight, divide the ponytail in half and drape the sections along both sides of the hair. Use a curling iron or wand, make loose waves with each section and the remaining hair to frame the face for a more youthful look.

 

Tousled High Pony

highpony

The best way to deal with crazy windy weather is to play up the messy look altogether! This no fuss slicked-back pony will keep you looking cute and frustration free all day long, no matter which was the wind blows. Starting with already loose waves, simply gather and brush hair into a high ponytail and secure with an elastic band. Tug on the ponytail and scrunch hair with a curl-enhancing mouse for added texture.

 

Pull Through Braid

pullthroughbraid

This braid is the perfect switch from the traditional braids and up-dos we’re used to because it packs on the drama while still looking elegant and being completely durable. Guaranteed weatherproof, this braid looks even more stunning on longer hair so you may want to pull your extensions out for this one! To get started, you will need a handful of elastic bands (around 8-10) and a clip to keep hair out of the way while you work. Watch this simple tutorial below to learn how:

10 Beauty Myths Debunked

There will always be an unspoken bond and instant level of trust formed between women, so when we played telephone with these commonly held beauty beliefs, we didn’t question what we heard. We took it as fact and kept it moving right down the line.

Beauty truths like sunscreen being one of the best anti-aging products you can use, and picking your face being one of the worst things you can do for your skin, are inarguably true. So they all must be created equally, right? While there are plenty of beauty basics that are fail-proof and proven true time and again, there are some major beauty myths floating around out there that just don’t hold up.

We’re here to set the record straight and save you from wasting any more precious time (that could be spent doing better things like crafting the perfect blended eyeshadow) following a ritual that won’t do you any justice. Next time you hear these 10 beauty myths, you can be sure to throw caution to the wind and never mistake them as a rule again.

10 Beauty Myths Debunked

Myth 1: You have to wash your face in the morning.

The truth is, you’re not going to be picking up much dirt or bacteria after a good night’s rest (unless you’re to bed with your makeup on!). In fact, over washing your face can lead to dryness and irritation by stripping the skin of its natural oils and sebum. For sensitive skin, a good rule of thumb has always been less is more. Wash your face when it’s necessary, and leave it alone when it needs to be left alone. A simple toner in the morning followed up with moisturizer should be plenty enough.

Myth 2: Makeup causes acne.

removing makeup

 Speaking of sleeping with your makeup on, otherwise known as the biggest beauty blunder under the sun, wearing makeup alone doesn’t cause those pesky breakouts. It’s forgetting to thoroughly take it off at the end of the night that does the real damage. This is not to say that all makeup products can’t adversely affect certain skin types, or that it will heal any existing acne, but that the real culprit is the bacteria and sweat buildup from a full day’s wear of makeup that’s an open invitation for clogged pores and acne-breeding bacteria.

Myth 3: You need to switch up products for maximum effectiveness.

It’s often been said that your skin or hair will “get used” to certain products and that you’ll need to switch up products up for maximum effectiveness. However, if you’re noticing that months later skin is no longer changing, it’s actually reached a threshold and is maintaining the positive improvements achieved.

Imagine trying to fill a cup that’s already full. You can’t add anything more, but nothing’s being taken away. And while it isn’t bad to switch up products or try something new, it isn’t a rule to reach your desired results. When it comes to hair, flat, dandruffed, or damaged hair is usually due to product build up from hairspray, serums, oil, or heat tools, which is often overlooked.

Try going without those products to see if you do need to change up your shampoo, or try a clarifying shampoo once a week and continue regular use of your favorite ‘poo.

Myth 4: Drinking water keeps your skin from drying out.

This is a major myth that’s out there since it’s so easy to confuse. While beauty starts from within and diet plays a major role, skin can still look dry even if you’re drinking 8 glasses of water a day. This is because it’s oil that keeps skin moist, not water. If you’re not hydrating properly, that can give the skin a wan appearance, but it won’t make skin look anymore hydrated if you’re not moisturizing consistently, too.

Myth 5: Shaving will cause hair to grow back thicker.

shave legs

Hair is widest at the base and most narrow at the tip. This is why when the hair starts to grow back in between shaves, the hair gives the illusion of being more thick, stubbly, and dark since each piece is short and growing in unison. The longer the hair is, the thinner it appears.

Myth 6: Use of castor oil increases the growth of eyelash and eyebrow hair.

While castor oil has long been regarded as nature’s Rogaine, application of the oil itself does not affect the rate of hair growth. However, when applying the oil, it’s suggested use is massaging it onto the desired area for a few minutes. It’s the stimulation that’s associated with the massage action that likely causes boosted hair growth.

Myth 7: Hair products, serums, and oils can repair split ends.

split ends

While products can temporarily “glue” split ends back together for an extended period of time, they cannot magically make a split end fuse back into one solid hair strand. Some swear by shea butter or Argan oil, which are actually very effective at sealing rough ends, though not permanently. The only true “remedy” for split ends remains a good trim followed by protective styling.

Myth 8: Brushing hair more will make it shinier and grow faster.

Remember being that little girl standing in the mirror with her paddle brush in hand, eagerly counting down each hair stroke knowing that with every stroke made, you were closer to having the shiniest, most glamorous hair of your life? Well, what you didn’t realize back then was that the Marcia Brady method of stroking hair over 100 times a day does more damage than good. Over-brushing actually irritates the scalp and causes more breakage.

Instead, focus on gentle, quality strokes that still remove the same amount of impurities. On top of that, steady stroking will distribute oil evenly from the scalp to the ends, flattening hair to ultimately reflect more light and stimulate the scalp, resulting in shiny, healthier hair.

Myth 9: White spots on nails means a vitamin deficiency.

Contrary to popular belief, white spots on nails don’t actually mean you’re low in iron, calcium, or vitamin d. Some superstitions even say it means you have a secret admirer. But most often than not, these white spots are formed due to a previous injury caused to the nail.

Myth 10: Test foundation color on your wrist to find the best match.

woman foundation

Find yourself running back-and-forth from the beauty store to return a mismatched foundation color, only to pick up another dud? That’s because matching your face color to your wrist will get you nowhere. The wrist is one of the lightest parts of your body, and won’t provide an accurate foundation match. Instead, find your foundation color by testing the product out on your jawline or neck and matching it to the natural complexion of your face.

Still Shopping for Holiday Gifts? How About This $45,000 Faberge Egg Pendant?

Doing your holiday shopping on a budget? Sorry, can’t help you there. But if you’ve got several tens of thousands of dollars to spare, how about this $45,000 Faberge egg pendant? Faberge released the Mosaic Multi-coloured Pendant, featuring princess cut sapphires, rubies, tsavorites, and white diamonds — all set in yellow gold. I know you’re wondering, and yes, the price includes shipping and insurance for delivery.

While most of us won’t be getting this gorgeous piece from Santa anytime soon (or… ever), it’s still fun to dream. This isn’t your average necklace, clearly, and can even be worn multiple ways. For instance, you can flip it around and wear it in the back, as pictured below.

Wouldn’t that look lovely will your favorite low-back dress?

Even though the price tag is giving me anxiety, I’d be lying if I said I didn’t find it beautiful. And while others certainly agree, some are simply curious.


What do you think of this Faberge egg? If you’re still shopping for friends and family and need creative gift ideas, visit Beyond Words for inspiration.

Main image: Faberge

These Christmas Leggings are Major Holiday Fashion Goals

The holidays are all about spending time with family, eating and drinking way too much, and of course, being cozy and comfortable (but still cute) at all times. To me, the epitome of comfort is leggings; but if you’re not into plain old, boring, black leggings for the holidays, we’ve rounded up some silly Christmas leggings, fancy leggings, food baby leggings (we’ll explain), and leggings that don’t look like leggings (we’ll also explain) you can wear to all your holiday events this season.

Silly Christmas Leggings

silly-christmas-leggings

Shop Green and Red | Shop Santa | Shop Patterned | Shop Snowmen

Take your Christmas sweater party outfit to a whole other level with these bad boys. In my opinion, when it comes to these parties, the sillier, the better; so why not pair your sweater with a pair of fun and funny leggings too? Anything goes: snowmen, Santa Claus, reindeer, and anything else that gives off those holiday vibes. How about those Santa pants?

Fancy Leggings

fancy-christmas-leggings

Shop Lace | Shop Sequin | Shop Metallic | Shop Velvet

I’ve been known to rock some pretty crazy leggings, more specifically, sequin and metallic. My motto is that just because something is made to be comfortable doesn’t mean it can’t be fashionable as well. If you’re headed to a holiday party that’s a little more on the formal side but you still want to get away with wearing something comfortable, pair these fancy leggings with your favourite oversized sweater. You can get away with wearing something a little more plain on top because your pants are so EXTRA, which makes putting together an outfit for the holidays even easier.

Food Baby Leggings

christmas leggings

Shop Ombre | Shop Black | Shop Grey | Shop Faux Leather

Holiday gatherings inevitably involve eating copious amounts of food; and eating copious amounts of food inevitably leads to a little belly bloat (AKA the food baby.) Pick up a pair (or six) of leggings with a wide waistband to keep you sucked-in and tight all holiday season long, so you can eat extra dessert without feeling guilty. Entire cheesecake, here I come.

Leggings That Don’t Look Like Leggings

christmas-leggings

Shop Buttons | Shop Denim | Shop Red | Shop Patent

Leggings that don’t look like leggings are another one of my favorite secret weapons (along with totally blinged out leggings). Jeggings (jean leggings) are a great way to look more dressed up and put together than you actually are. Jeggings are as comfortable as leggings but they look like jeans, so you’re able to get the best of both worlds. The best thing about jeggings is that you can wear whatever you want on top because of the buttons and pockets on them that make them look more like real pants and not full-on leggings.

Traditional Tights

christmas-tights

Shop Striped | Shop Fishnet | Shop Suspender | Shop Lace

If you’re less into Christmas leggings and more into traditional tights, we’ve also rounded up some looks for you, because tights don’t have to be boring either. Again, I like to pair tights with my fav oversized sweater or a cute holiday dress.

These Are Supposedly The Sketches For Meghan Markle’s Wedding Dress

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry are wasting no time in planning their upcoming nuptials. The big day is in May, after all. We know the date (May 19). We’ve seen the ring. Now we’re seeing what are supposedly sketches of Markle’s wedding dress from designer Inbal Dror, numerous outlets report.

While nothing has been confirmed by the Royal Family or Markle herself, Dror was reportedly ask to provide designs by the Royal Family. It’s probably safe to say that Markle will not be going with one of these exact designs, and we probably won’t see her choice until the big day. In fact, according to Bustle, there’s a good chance Dror won’t design the dress at all. She’s not based in the UK, and it’s customary to choose a designer who is.

Whatever the case may be, these designs are gorgeous, and Markle would rock any of them. They’re also quite a unique choice for a royal wedding, as previous brides have tended to go with more conservative looks.

Which one is your favorite?

 

 

Main image: Meghan Markle Fans/Facebook

These Two Body-Positive Women Are the Inspiration We Need

Fairytale princesses have long been under the spotlight not just for their beauty, but for how they represent women. And those discussions aren’t always pleasant. They’ve been named by many as a bad influence for always representing such a narrow (and largely unattainable) range of personalities and traits — very thin, fair-skinned, quiet, vulnerable. So many of us grew up loving the princesses in our favorite animated movies, but realized as adults that we needed something more. We’ve got an answer, thanks to body-positive champions Michelle Elman and Amy Wooldridge.

Elman and Wooldridge teamed up to dress as the kind of princesses I think we’d all like to see a bit more of. Elman specifically bares scars on her torso and head from 15 surgeries she had earlier in life. The Lion King left a lasting impact on her thanks to Scar, the villian. “So many villains have scars but never the princess,” she says, according to Cosmo. Add to that the weight gain she experienced due to being bedridden, and she couldn’t have felt more excluded. Wooldridge had similar experiences, feeling scared that by not being the thin princess, she wouldn’t get her own happy ending.

Since they weren’t able to find the princesses they can relate to in the movies, they decided to become them. For a series of photos, Elman dressed as Snow White, and Wooldridge dressed as Rapunzel. If you ask me, the results are pretty darn gorgeous.

I’m not saying you should boycott children’s movies and their many beautiful princesses. I’m saying there’s a serious lack of diversity of representation. Assigning the word “beauty” with one definition means that most of us will never feel worthy. Only once we understand that all women are beautiful can we truly accept each other and spread kindness wherever we go.

My hat’s off to these two young ladies! And, reader, in case anyone hasn’t told you today, you’re beautiful.

Main image: Michelle Elman/Facebook

4 Tips for Safe Holiday Shopping

The holidays are upon us – ah, the music, the colors, the food, the shopping! We are approaching the busiest shopping season of the year, a time for buying decorations, holiday gifts, and more. But, according to the LAPD Crime Prevention Section, “it is also a time when busy people become careless and vulnerable to theft and other holiday crime.” While shopping for all these goodies this season, make sure the bad guys aren’t shopping you.

Here are some ways to keep yourself from becoming an easy target this holiday season.

Pay attention to your surroundings

Don’t allow talking on your cell phone or responding to texts to distract you from what’s going on around you. Keep your head on a swivel, scanning from side to side, while walking with purpose. This keeps you aware of your surroundings and oncoming potential problems.

woman parking lot

Carry only the essentials

Let’s start with that expensive designer bag you’re carrying. It makes a statement and telegraphs wealth, real or imagined. If you can leave it at home, the best place to carry your personal items is on your body, such as in pockets or in your waistband. If you must carry a purse or bag, take a look at its contents before shopping. You really only need car keys, cell phone and wallet. Even your wallet should only contain essential shopping items: identification, cash and credit/debit cards.

There is always safety in numbers

If you can help it, don’t go out shopping alone. Shop with a friend, or several.

women shopping talking

Practice parking lot safety

Park in a well-lit area or shop during daylight hours. Try not to park a sedan between two large vehicles, like SUVs, vans, or trucks. It blocks you from view of the rest of the lot. Remember to roll up all windows and lock all doors when leaving your car and don’t leave valuable items in plain view.

Holiday shopping doesn’t have to be a hazardous duty. A few simple precautions can keep you safe, prepared and out of harm’s way.

 

Find out more about Gary at www.tabkeandassociates.com and follow him on Facebook Tabke & Associates, Private Investigations.

Lush is Selling a GIANT Bath Bomb

Everyone loves a good bath bomb; and no one does bath bombs better than Lush. There’s one downside to them, though: when they’re gone. This holiday season, your prayers have been answered. Lush is selling a GIANT bath bomb, and it’s five time larger than the original!

The Giant Golden Wonder is here to make all your dreams come true. According to Lush’s Facebook page, it’s five times the size of the regular Golden Wonder and weighs 2.6 pounds. The beautiful bath fizzy is so monstrous, it takes three days to make. Each bath bomb will set you back about $20. But honestly — is any price too great for a giant bath bomb? No. If you’re looking for a way to make your bath a swirling party of glitter and magic, well, here it is. Like their other bath bombs, this is meant to be used for one bath, meaning this could be the most expensive bath ever. Also, you should only buy it for someone you really, really like.

You can buy it online starting today, and it will be in select stores starting December 6th. This bad boy is sticking around only for the holidays, so get it while you can.

Top 5 BB Creams for All Skin Tones

BB creams are a big deal. They exploded into the Western market in the early 2010s after taking Asia by storm starting in the 50s. Why do women around the world of all different skin tones love them? They save you time by essentially combining five products in one: serum, moisturizer, primer, foundation and sunscreen. You can use one on its own or underneath foundation, depending on the level of coverage you like. The BB technically stands for “beauty balm” or “blemish balm,” but we think it should stand for “basically badass.” Because they are.

Now, there are a variety of BB creams on the market that are “self-adjusting,” which means they come in a single shade that adapts to each person’s specific color. Here are our top five picks for self-adjusting BB creams that work for a range of skin tones to help you take the guesswork out of your beauty routine and ultimately, save you precious time in the morning.

1. Dr. Brandt Signature Flexitone BB Cream

Dr. Brandt was the first to introduce “tone-blending technology” in a BB cream to make it work for a variety of skin tones. It claims to brighten, perfect and hydrate as well as reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles

 

 

2. Dr. Jart+ Premium Beauty Balm

Just what the doctor ordered. Dr. Jart, that is. This light cream contains white gold, which promotes natural collagen.

 

 

 

3. Boscia BB Cream Broad Spectrum SPF 27

The boscia BB cream comes out of the bottle white, but quickly blends into your skin tone. A slight shimmer adds some brightness and glow.

 

 

 

4. DERMAdoctor DD Cream 15-Benefits-in-1 Dermatologically Defining BB Cream

bb creams

Dermatologists developed this ambitious BB cream, which combines 15 skin benefits in one. A white sapphire complex makes it self-adjusting to any skin tone.

 

 

 

5. Body Shop Vitamin E Cool BB Cream

bb creams

This relatively inexpensive best seller from the Body Shop is beloved by women of all skin tones and lovers of the environment alike. Fortified with Vitamin E, a little bit of this lightweight cream goes a long way.